Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Dec 19: Two-day Tulunadu cultural festival 'Tulunaadouchaya - 2017' will be inaugurated on December 23 at Pilikula Nisargadhama, informed Dr David Frank Fernandes , president of the organizing committee.

Addressing media here on Tuesday, December 19, Dr David Frank Fernandes said, "Thinkers, literatures and ministers from central and state government are expected to take part in the inaugural ceremony. Prior to inaugural ceremony, cultural procession will be taken out from Vamanjoor to Pilikula Nisargadhama.

“On December 23, a session on future plans including the inclusion of Tulu language in the 8th schedule of the Constitution will be held. ‘Dravidothsava’, a folk cultural event and Koti Chennaya drama will also be presented during the occasion.

“Tulu Ratna Award will be conferred on renowned drama artist Dr D K Chowta, senior writer Dr Sunitha M Shetty, and artiste Gopal Nayak Machar. Jana Maithri Award will be conferred on SCDCC Bank director Dr M N Rajendra Kumar, chairman of AJ Institution Dr A J Shetty, and Martin Aranha and Sudhir Kumar Shetty of UAE exchange. Lifetime Achievement Award will be awarded to Dr Richard Castelino, Deepak Rai, and Murlidhar Kamath.

“Actors Naveen D Padil, Usha Bhandary, director Ismail Moodushedde (cinema), Jagannath Shetty Bala, Kudroli Ganesh (magician), drama artist Rohini Jagaram and Murlidhar Kamath will be felicitated.

“'Tulunaadouchaya - 2017' will be a complete cultural extravaganza which will promote the culture and tradition of Tulunadu. The main focus will be on to include Tulu language in the 8th schedule of the Constitution,” he said.

Organising committee general convenor Rajesh Alva, secretary Shamina Alva, members Sarvothama Shetty, Yogesh Shetty and Sukumar Mohan, V G Pal and others were present.